Terry wall's 5,000 metres victory in the North of England League contest matched the hot conditions he encountered before and during the 12-and-a-half laps of Clairville Stadium, Middlesbrough.

Terry wall's 5,000 metres victory in the North of England League contest matched the hot conditions he encountered before and during the 12-and-a-half laps of Clairville Stadium, Middlesbrough.

Prior to lining up in the late afternoon sun on Teesside, the Morpeth Harrier had already completed a hectic shift as a baker in front of piping hot ovens and, in fairness, was feeling anything but fired up about taking on his rivals.

However, despite his poor preparations, Wall gave everyone the cold shoulder and came home well clear of the rest of the field.

"With this job you have to fit racing in when you can," said Wall, who was pleased with his sub-15 minute time, the first occasion on which he has managed that for four years.

"It's always going to be a problem for me but your job comes first, so athletics has to play second fiddle."

Before going for a warm-down run after the race, Wall still managed a smile and added: "I'm feeling quite tired now. The 6am start this morning is beginning to catch up on me - but I'll be alright for my long Sunday run tomorrow!"

Wall omitted to explain that the track outing was his second race in three days after he finished runner-up behind a rejuvenated Michael Openshaw in the Tynedale 10k on Wednesday, but as he explained: "I have to fit in races around my shifts.

"It's no use moaning - you just have to get on with it." Wall's situation is a million miles away from the comparatively straightforward, undemanding life of a full-time athlete!